A Dundee tearoom, farm shop and garden centre beloved by locals has suddenly ceased trading.
Jessie's Kitchen in Broughty Ferry announced the news with little warning on its Facebook page earlier on Thursday, surprising and shocking residents who enjoyed its cakes and fresh produce. The news has left followers of the business "very, very sad" and "absolutely gutted."
Announcing the news on its page, the business said: "This isn’t a post we ever thought we’d have to write and not the post most of our lovely customers will expect to see from Jessie’s but, unfortunately, we have some bad news for you. It’s happened - we’ve closed the doors at our beautiful café and are no longer trading at all in Jessie’s, garden centre or farm shop.
"We’re absolutely gutted to say goodbye. It's been a fantastic rollercoaster and learning curve that we wouldn’t have swapped it for the world. We’re so grateful to everyone who’s walked through our doors and supported us.
"Closing the doors this suddenly is far from ideal, we totally get that, but there are some things in this that we just couldn’t alter. We’re so sorry for any customers affected. Thank you everyone for all of your custom and support over the years at Jessie’s, it’s been a beautiful thing to be a part of."
The business has urged other hospitality employers to get in touch if they can offer jobs out to the numerous staff who are now out of work. The exact number of people has not been disclosed.
Local patrons and other businesses alike shared their tributes to the business on its social media profile.
Andrew Batchelor, who runs the Dundee Culture website, said: "Absolutely gutted to hear the news that Jessie's Kitchen is closing. It was a fantastic place. I went there with my Gran before she passed away and it was a memory that continues to be one close to my heart. My best wishes for the staff in their future endeavours!"
Sarah Lamont wrote: "Just heartbreaking, have had many a lovely trip to Jessie’s and cannot fault the food or the service. You rose to the challenge of lockdown and kept us all in traybakes veg boxes and delicious cream meringues.
"A very sad loss for Broughty Ferry. Wishing you and the team all the best for the future."
No further details were provided as to the reasons behind the closure. However, Dundee Live has contacted the business for comment.
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